Matches use a side-view perspective with two horizontal fighting planes. Players reduce an opponent's life bar through normal attacks, special moves, throws, and plane attacks, while changing lanes can evade some attacks or create new openings.

The main single-player path is a sequence of tournament bouts ending with boss encounters. Versus play supports matches against another player. Fighters gain access to distinct command moves and special attacks, and careful spacing, blocking, jumping, and timing are more important than simply repeating attacks.

Learn the range and recovery of each fighter's normal attacks before relying on special moves. Use the two planes deliberately: switching lanes can avoid a linear attack, but an unsafe plane shift can also leave you open.

Against bosses, block patiently and punish missed attacks rather than attacking continuously. Preserve your life by avoiding unnecessary jumps, and practice command inputs in Versus mode if the game offers the opportunity.